what car seat do i need for a 4 year old?
the centers for disease control recommends that you choose a convertible car seat with a two-stage harness system. there are many convertible seats on the market with varying features, so here are some tips to find the right one for your child:
if purchasing online keep in mind that some store models have limitations on headroom space while others will allow you to “hog out” your backseat cabin. a few companies offer different versions of the same seat for this trade-off. check options available in person before making an impulsive purchase online without knowing all your size constraints.
option 3 is usually the most expensive option but it is also typically more reliable, durable, and supportive of new crash testing standards. one important thing to
can a 4 year old be in a booster seat?
yes.
according to the car seat lady, children under 54 inches tall cannot be in a booster seat until they are 8 years old. when kids outgrow their car seats, boosters can be used up to age 12 or 4'9″ tall. if the child is between four and eight years old, but barely reaches the 3'4″ height limit for using a booster- probably not the best option at this point due to size difference with adult belts/srs.
a final consideration is whether or not your child will need different crotchbelt lengths in an adult belt with lap/shoulder belts that cross over each other's middle section vs just lap belts – three times as many crash deaths happen when only lap belts are
does my 4 year old need a high back booster seat?
all children should be satisfied in the seat belt. if not, please purchase a high-back buckle booster seat to put an assertive distance between the shoulder and their heart.
it is recommended that 4 year olds use booster seats with high backs if they are too short for applying an armrest within 10 inches of buckle; aren't able to meet minimum length requirements for wearing vehicle's lap belt without excessive slack (shoulder measuring less than two finger widths past edge of body) or can't fit into the vehicle's belted position; shoulders extend beyond top harness slot when seated in an adult, non-accommodating safety belt; or if it is determined by examination that the child will not be protected adequately (ped
when should i switch my 4 year old car seat?
always follow the manufacturer's instructions for child safety
manufacturers provide guidelines to help parents know when it is time to get a new car seat. follow these guidelines and always be sure to read the release date on the sticker before you buy. the car seat's expiration date can also be found in online consumer reviews and may give you a good hint as to when your existing one will need replacement.
